Childhood Obesity Statistics, Health Effects and How Weight Loss Camps Can Help

Data from the 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey show that the percent of children who are overweight (defined as BMI-for-age at or above the 95th percentile of the CDC Growth Charts) continues to increase. Among children and teens ages 6-19, 16 percent (over 9 million) are overweight according to the 1999-2002 data, triple the proportion in 1980.

In addition to the 16 percent of overweight children and teens ages 6 to 19, another 15 percent were considered at risk of becoming overweight (a BMI-for-age between the 85th and 95th percentiles).

Since 30% of adult obesity begins in childhood, these latest findings for overweight children and adolescents suggest the likelihood of another generation of overweight adults who may be at risk for subsequent overweight and obesity related health conditions. The data for adolescents are of special concern because overweight teens are at an even higher risk of becoming overweight adults.

Additional Health Risks of Childhood Obesity

Overweight children are more than two times likely to have high levels of cholesterol. Aortic fatty streaks, the first stages of atherosclerosis, begin to appear in childhood, perhaps early as three years old. Children with triceps skinfolds greater than the 70th percentile have significantly higher blood pressure. In the past few years, Type 2 diabetes has risen dramatically among children and adolescents

In addition, overweight children may feel isolated and lonely, leading to self-esteem and identity problems. In a recent study, obese children rated their quality of life with scores as low as those of young cancer patients on chemotherapy. Children were asked to rate things like their ability to walk more than one block, play sports, sleep well, get along with others and keep up in school. The results indicated that that teasing at school, difficulties playing sports, fatigue, sleep apnea and other obesity-linked problems severely affected obese children's well-being.

How Can Weight Loss Camps, "Fat Camps" Help?

Weight loss camps focus on life-long habits of balancing healthy eating and activity. Nutrition classes emphasize the knowledge needed to make healthy choices. Cooking classes help empower overweight children to take control. Activity is not only encouraged, but required. Children also participate in "rap sessions" or self-esteem workshops that help build confidence. Self esteem goes up as children try new activities, learn new skills, develop friendships and feel part of a caring community.

Good quality weight loss camps follow up with campers and their families. Weight loss camps will typically offer all traditional camp activities, including sports, arts and crafts and theater programs, and the best even offer paintball, mountain biking, ropes course and go-karts. These activities help create an atmosphere of fun and excitement in a supportive environment.